- Patent archives suggest that Apple is working on cruise control solutions
- Updates seem to refine the cruise control boundary surfaces
- Apple continues to develop CarPlay Ultra in spite of resistance from car manufacturers
Apple recently showed its Apple CarPlay Ultra software in a link with Aston Martin, which has become the first and only car manufacturer to offer the system so far.
In the readiness of several global car brands adopting the infotainment -innovation, which sees the CarPlay environment extends from the Infotainment screen to digital drivers screens and skin, Apple is busy refining its technology in the background.
The site that patentlessly follows the California Tech Company’s patent archives used specifically follows the California Tech Company’s patent archives specifically referring to Cruise Control in the CarPlay Ultra environment.
It reveals how Cruise Control information appears in the instrument cluster, as well as giving different visual indicators on multiple screens when active.
Apple also wants to reduce the amount of driver interaction required to adjust the system’s speed, or shut it off completely.
Most car manufacturers have their Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) systems linked to their built -in navigation software, but this patent and details of Apple suggest that CarPlay Ultra will also see ACC systems drawing information from Apple Maps, anticipating road changes and adjusting speed according to local boundaries for a smoother, more secure journey.
Analysis: CarPlay Ultra could fizzle out
While much of the patent application does not actually include anything new or really innovative, it is proof that Apple is pushing to integrate all modern vehicle systems into its CarPlay Ultra environment in the future.
That said, this all -encompassing approach has resulted in some resistance from car manufacturers, a number of which have already said they no longer plan to introduce the technology into their vehicles.
Google has offered an alternative in its Android Automotive Platform that allows manufacturers to offer a variety of apps and access to Google’s mapping software without having to give up the entire digital property for the tech giant.
Digital subscriptions and online purchases are increasingly becoming an important income stream for manufacturers, which could explain why they are hesitant to allow Apple to rule over the driver’s digital domain.
Plus, with the introduction of iOS 26, Apple has committed to improving the regular CarPlay experience, making it easier to use behind the wheel and clearing some of the problems with the technology.
It is very likely that the majority of car manufacturers will still offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as screen mirror services while continuing to push their own apps and infotainment offers.
